1. What is the 3-Phase kWh to Amps Formula?

The 3-phase kWh to amps formula calculates the current (amperes) drawn by a 3-phase electrical system based on energy consumption (kWh), voltage, power factor, and time period. It's essential for electrical system design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the 3-phase current formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( kWh \) — Energy consumption in kilowatt-hours
• \( V \) — Line-to-line voltage in volts (V)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)
• \( h \) — Time period in hours

Explanation: The formula converts energy (kWh) to power (kW), then calculates current by dividing power by the product of √3, voltage, and power factor.

3. Importance of Current Calculation

Details: Knowing the current drawn by a 3-phase system is crucial for proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, and ensuring electrical system safety and efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter energy consumption in kWh, line-to-line voltage in volts, power factor (typically 0.8-0.95 for most systems), and time period in hours. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the power factor important?
A: Power factor accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current. Lower power factors mean more current is required for the same real power.

Q2: What's the difference between line-to-line and line-to-neutral voltage?
A: In 3-phase systems, line-to-line voltage is √3 times the line-to-neutral voltage. This formula uses line-to-line voltage.

Q3: Can I use this for single-phase systems?
A: No, for single-phase systems use: I = (kWh × 1000) / (V × PF × h)

Q4: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For motors, 0.8-0.9 is common. Resistive loads have PF=1. Always check equipment specifications.

Q5: How does time period affect the calculation?
A: Current is inversely proportional to time period - longer time periods with same kWh mean lower average current.